Skip to content
Home » Blog » How to Make Chicken Soup

How to Make Chicken Soup

How to Make Chicken Soup

Chicken soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cold days or when you need a warm, nostalgic meal. This beloved staple of Israeli cuisine combines deep, rich flavors with nutritional benefits, making it both soothing and nourishing. Whether you serve it with delicate noodles or enjoy its clear broth and root vegetables, chicken soup is always a family favorite.

Ingredients:

  • Chicken: Choose your preferred parts (e.g., drumsticks, thighs, wings, necks, or bones).
  • Onion: 1 whole, peeled
  • Celery: 2–3 stalks
  • Carrots: 3, peeled and chopped
  • Zucchini: 1, sliced or chopped
  • Fresh Dill: A handful, tied or chopped
  • Water: Enough to fully cover the ingredients
  • Salt and Pepper: To taste
  • Turmeric: ½ teaspoon (for a rich color and aroma)

Preparation Steps

1. Prep the Vegetables

Wash and peel the vegetables as needed. Cut them into the desired size:

  • For a more rustic soup, chop coarsely.
  • For a heartier texture, finely dice part of the vegetables and leave others in slices or wedges.

2. Choose Your Chicken

Select chicken parts for the soup. Options include:

  • Drumsticks, thighs, or wings: Provide flavorful meat for serving.
  • Necks or bones: Great for enhancing broth flavor.

Optional: Rinse the chicken under cold water if desired.

3. Start the Broth

  1. Place the chicken parts in a large pot and cover them with water.
  2. Bring to a boil over high heat.
  3. As the water boils, use a slotted spoon or skimmer to remove the foam (a process called skimming or clarifying). This step ensures a clear and clean broth.

4. Add Vegetables and Seasoning

  1. Once the foam is removed, add the onion, celery, carrots, zucchini, and any additional ingredients (e.g., fresh dill).
  2. Season generously with salt, pepper, and turmeric.
  3. Lower the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer gently for about 1 hour, or until the chicken and vegetables are tender.

5. Finishing Touches

  1. Remove the chicken from the pot.
    • If using meatier cuts, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and return to the pot without the bones.
    • For necks or bony parts, discard them after simmering (or enjoy them as is!).
  2. Adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if necessary.

Tips for Elevating Your Chicken Soup

  • Add Noodles: Cook thin egg noodles separately and add to each serving bowl for a classic twist.
  • Pumpkin or Squash: Include for added sweetness and texture.
  • Root Vegetables: Add celery root or parsley root for a deeper flavor profile.
  • Garlic: Add a whole garlic clove during cooking for a subtle aroma.
  • Ginger: Grate in fresh ginger for an extra warming and health-boosting touch.
  • Lemon Wedge: Serve with a slice of lemon for a refreshing hint of acidity.
  • Crispy Side: Pair with homemade croutons or toasted bread for a crunchy complement.
  • Turmeric: A pinch adds color and a slightly earthy flavor.

Storing the Soup

Chicken soup can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. If a fat layer forms on top when cooled, you can easily remove it before reheating for a lighter option.

Enjoy your cozy, flavorful chicken soup! 🥣